Silver And Carnelian Pillbox - Arabic Calligraphy - 19th Century

Silver and engraved carnelian pillbox – Arabic calligraphy – 19th century

Elegant oval pillbox in finely hammered silver, adorned on the lid with a carnelian stone hand-engraved with calligraphic Arabic characters.

Description

The stone is set in a twisted frame, bringing relief and refinement to the whole. The central calligraphy seems to bear a religious invocation or a Quranic verse, typical of Islamic piety objects. This type of piece could be used to contain seals, kohl or symbolic elements, and was sometimes worn as a talisman or personal object of devotion.
The body of the pillbox has a hammered texture, evoking a bark or braiding pattern.
The interior is sober, with a patina of use, and the box closes perfectly.
There is a discreet hallmark under the base, difficult to read but suggesting a title close to 900 silver.

Characteristics:
Period: 19th century
Origin: Middle East / Islamic world (probable Ottoman or Persian influence)
Material: Silver (hallmarked), natural stone (carnelian)
Decoration: Arabic calligraphy, closed setting, hammered body
Dimensions: 30 mm x 22 mm
Weight: 16.5 gr

Condition:

Very good general condition, light wear related to use, intact stone.

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